airTEXT - air pollution forecast and alert system

airTEXT is a unique air quality information service for people who live or work in London and who suffer from asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, heart disease or angina.

If you have one of these conditions you may be affected by higher than normal levels of air pollution.

airTEXT is designed to alert you when air pollution levels are elevated so that you can take simple precautionary measures to help reduce the likelihood of any impacts.

How does airTEXT work?

airTEXT is an air pollution forecasting system. This combines information from weather forecasts, European wide pollution forecasts and very detailed local pollution data to predict air pollution levels in Tower Hamlets and the rest of London.

When air pollution levels are predicted to reach moderate or higher levels you will receive an SMS message, a voice mail or an email to warn you that pollution may be elevated the following day. You can choose to receive your alerts either between 6.00pm and 7.00pm on the evening before, or between 7.00am and 9.00am on the morning when an episode of air pollution is expected.

The messages will provide you with health advice but the action you can take depends on the level of pollution expected. This could include taking your inhaler or angina spray with you, taking extra doses if symptoms worsen, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activity on polluted days.

How do I register with airTEXT?

In order to receive the air pollution alerts you need to signup to AirTEXT. This is a free service and registration can be made on online at http://www.airtext.info/ or by calling the airTEXT co-ordinators on 020 8760 5483.